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Genentech recalled Raptiva in 2009 after the drug, used to treat psoriasis, was linked to three suspected cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a deadly brain infection that can turn fatal. In addition to attacking the central nervous system, PML can cause paralysis, speech impairment, vision loss, weakness, cognitive deterioration, and death.

Raptiva, a subcutaneous injection, increased the risks of life-threatening infections, lymphoma, neurological complications, malignancy, and death. Sylvia claims that the drug manufacturers knew about the health risks posed by the drug yet failed to warn physicians or patients. He says that the defendants allowed the defective drug to remain in the market when they knew there were safer options.

Unfortunately, each year, thousands of Americans are killed because of adverse side effects from taking prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, a defective drug is allowed to remain in the marketplace even after the medication has caused serious side effects in users. Failure to warn of possible side effects has resulted in health complications that could otherwise have been avoided.

It is a drug maker’s responsibility to make sure that their medications don’t cause catastrophic injuries or serious health issues. When a drug manufacturer fails in this duty, the victim or his/her family may have grounds for a Boston dangerous drug lawsuit.